Gerhard Mayer-Vorfelder

German businessman and football executive

Gerhard Mayer-Vorfelder - Leaders & Politicians born 1933
Born

1933
93 years ago

Died
Category

Leaders & Politicians

Country

Germany

Links & References

A prominent figure in German football administration, held the role of president at the German Football Association (DFB) from 2001 to 2006. His influence extended to international football governance as a vice president of FIFA, contributing to the organization's strategic direction. Prior to these roles, served as the president of the VfB Stuttgart football club, fostering growth and stability within the organization. Passed away in 2015.

Served as the president of the DFB

Held the position of vice president at FIFA

Presided over VfB Stuttgart

Other People Who Died on August 17th

Muhammad Zia-ul-Haq

Pakistani general and politician
Born
August 12th, 1924 101 years ago
Died
August 17th, 1988 37 years ago — 64 years old

Served as the sixth President of Pakistan from 1978 until his death in 1988. Initially took power through a military coup in 1977, establishing martial law and assuming the position of Chief Martial Law Administrator. Implemented policies that facilitated the Islamization of Pakistan's legal and societal structures. Oversaw significant political and economic changes, and his tenure was marked by efforts to increase the role of Islamic law in governance. Died in an airplane crash in 1988, which was highly controversial and led to various conspiracy theories.

Continue Reading

Wilhelm Bleek

Linguist and anthropologist specializing in African languages
Born
March 8th, 1827 199 years ago
Died
August 17th, 1875 150 years ago — 48 years old

Contributed significantly to the study of indigenous African languages and cultures. Conducted extensive research on the Khoisan languages and their grammatical structures. Collaborated on the compilation of language dictionaries and grammars to preserve these languages. Founded the first anthropology department at the University of Cape Town. Documented the history and culture of the Khoikhoi and San peoples through his writings.

Continue Reading

Ira Gershwin

American songwriter with classic lyrics
Born
December 6th, 1896 129 years ago
Died
August 17th, 1983 42 years ago — 86 years old

A prominent American songwriter, contributed lyrics to many celebrated songs and musicals. Collaborated extensively with composer George Gershwin, creating lasting works in American music. Wrote lyrics for iconic songs such as 'Summertime', 'I Got Rhythm', and 'Someone to Watch Over Me'. Lyricist for the Broadway musicals 'Porgy and Bess' and 'Lady, Be Good!', which showcased the Gershwin brothers' talents. Inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame in 1970, further solidifying a legacy in American songwriting.

Continue Reading

Lorenzo Da Ponte

Opera librettist for Mozart's works
Born
March 10th, 1749 277 years ago
Died
August 17th, 1838 187 years ago — 89 years old

An Italian-American priest and poet, contributed significantly to the world of opera through collaborations with composer Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. Wrote librettos for several operas including 'The Marriage of Figaro,' 'Don Giovanni,' and 'Cosi fan tutte.' After moving to America, engaged in various pursuits, including founding an Italian-language school in New York. His literary contributions continue to be celebrated in the realms of music and literature.

Continue Reading

Charlotte Perkins Gilman

American sociologist and author
Born
July 3rd, 1860 166 years ago
Died
August 17th, 1935 90 years ago — 75 years old

A prominent sociologist and author, contributed significantly to discussions on gender roles and society. Best recognized for the story 'The Yellow Wallpaper', which critiques mental health treatment and women's oppression. Advocated for women's economic independence and social reform through writings and lectures. Published influential works, including 'Women and Economics', which argued for women's financial autonomy.

Continue Reading

Ken Miles

Race car driver and Le Mans competitor
Born
November 1st, 1918 107 years ago
Died
August 17th, 1966 59 years ago — 47 years old

An English-American race car driver participated in numerous motorsport events during the 1950s and 1960s. Played a pivotal role in the development of the Ford GT40, contributing significantly to its racing success at the 24 Hours of Le Mans. Achieved notable victories in various sports car races, solidifying a reputation within the racing community for precision driving and engineering insight. His collaboration with Ford Racing led to innovative engineering solutions and a deep understanding of vehicle performance. Miles died in a testing accident in 1966, shortly before the completion of the Ford GT40's successful racing campaign.

Continue Reading